The Blue Light

Track Listings

1. Stadium

2. First Moment (a score)

3. Thursday

4. Chambers of the Sea

5. Strolling a Suspension Bridge

6. Cayuga's Waters (live)

7. Flight

8. Dark Blue

9. The Rainy Years

10. Cascadilla Glen (live)

11. Farewells

12. Sunset Park

The Blue Light,Seth Kaufman,Cascadilla Records,Jazz,New Age

The Blue Light

Tracks:

Turn To Stone
It's Over
Sweet Talkin' Woman
Across The Border
Night In The City
Starlight
Jungle
Believe Me Now
Steppin' Out
Standin' In The Rain
Big Wheels
Summer And Lightning
Mr. Blue Sky
Sweet Is The Night
The Whale
Birmingham Blues
Wild West Hero
Wild West Hero
The Quick And The Daft
Latitude 88 North

Customer Reviews:

Great packaging but don't sell your old ZGK 35530 CD just yet!.......2007-07-27

I'm glad Jeff Lynne re-released this album. It's one of my favorites. The details are great with the bonus tracks.But....I compared it to the Joe Gastwirt remastered version and the sound of Joe's version is fuller, bigger, warmer and clearer. This is important of a recording to mess with. I wish it was in 5.1 (The Whale). Joe Gastwirt's remastered version Out of the Blue

Still a great album after all these years........2007-07-24

I still remember this album from when it came out. I remember the tv ad with two teenagers making out in a car and all of a sudden a flash of light. "What's that?" she asks. He replies "Why it's the new album from the Electric Light Orchestra" while pulling it down from the roof of the car. This album starts with the big hit Turn To Stone and already you can here the disco influence that would become more prevalant on the band's Discovery album. Still, it is a good song. It's Over has always been one of my favorite ELO songs and it's never sounded better than on this edition. Back when this album came out, I couldn't stand the hit Sweet Talkin' Woman but it really doesn't sound as bad now. Across The Border is fun. Night In The City and Starlight are both nice enough. Jungle, Believe Me Now and Steppin' Out are great songs. Jungle is fun. Believe In Me Now and Steppin' Out show Jeff's Beatles influence and are better for it. What used to be side three is Concerto For A Rainy Day and is/was the most consistant side of the old album including the third big hit, Mr. Blue Sky. Sweet Is The Night is nice. The Whale is another great song. Birmingham Blues is only ok and Wild West Hero is better. The unreleased bonus tracks are short but good. It is to Jeff's credit, that unlike most two record sets at the time, there are no real terrible songs on here. As far as the packaging of this one, I don't currently see what all the complaints are about. First of all, the Joe Gastwirt version came out in 1987 and not 1990 and as far as a few brief dropouts, those are on the master tapes. Most albums recorded in the late '70's have this problem as the tapes actually fall apart and need to be "baked". I like the fact that they went for a version that actually sounds like the master tapes which makes this sound more like the original release and not overly remastered(IE new mixes, erased parts and stuff like that). My first copy of this was from 1977(without dropouts) and in 1982 I bought a fresh copy but by that time the dropouts were already there. The Gastwirt version was from a cleaned up vinyl copy and the dropouts are on there too as well as the box set versions of the songs. As far as the box, I've gotten cd's that have been worse packaged than this one including a couple by ELO. I would suggest putting a wrapper around the box to help keep it from getting too dinged up. I like the fact that there's a mini version of the put it together spaceship that used to come with the lp and I like the interview with Jeff Lynne. I should add that the other new version comes with an edited booklet and doesn't have the nice stuff that this one does.

Sonic Blow-Out!.......2007-06-20

The music is very familiar to any ELO fan (it helps that I consider this their best album) so I'll only comment on the sound on this new remaster. WOW!

Even if you own a first pressing vinyl copy (one of the best sounding vinyl releases ever), even if you own a Japanese copy of this on vinyl, even if you own any of the cd releases of this great album, you NEED this re-issue. Not only does it include a few bonus tracks, the remastered 2007 version (done with Jeff Lynne's participation) is absolutely STUNNING.

The deluxe version has some impressive packaging, despite the fact that it's very difficult to get the cd out of it without major fingerprints on the disc, so casual fans might want to stick to the regular jewelbox version. But, and I cannot emphasize this enough...if you are a fan of ELO in ANY degree, GET THIS!!! The sound will knock you out.

It's been 30 Years and going strong!!.......2007-03-29

If you love ELO you must own this CD, the packaging in a hardbound book form with the small put together ELO Mobile is awesome for any collector. I really enjoyed the quality of these recordings especially since I still own the Original 1977 double LP, it was also great to get a few bonus tracks not previously availible.

Great Album... why two versions?.......2007-03-26

Okay folks, first you have to realize that there are two versions of this album. The Annaversary Special Edition of which I highly recommend you purchase, and the Sony stick it to-ya version of which you will find every song crammed onto one CD... which means they shortened space time between tracks, shortened beginings (listen to the fade between Big Wheels and Summer and Lightening to hear what I mean), and worst of all lower quality sound.

AARRRGGHHHH!!!!!

Why could they not just release the great Special Annaversary version complete with the 1977 sleeves, lyrics, punch-out, poster and set a mid-ranged price for it instead of doing such an injustice to ELO's second best album?

Jeff and the boys should be charging down to whatever Sony mogul here in the USA is and show him what "Electric Light" means.

Grief!!!

Overall, if you can, get the Special Editions and leave the other one alone unless, like me, you intend to use one as a keeper and the other as the playing version. I highly highly recommend Out of the Blue just like all of the other Remasters and find Latitude 88 North to be worth the wait alone.

Now we need a Remastered Zoom, Armchair Theater, Kelly, and other post ELO efforts to make the collection complete.

Beethoven's Wig, Vol. 2: More Sing-Along Symphonies

Average customer rating:

Almost as wonderful as the first
Greatest baby gift ever
Great for the whole family
More Great Fun
One is better but this is still awesome!! Gotta have it!

Beethoven's Wig, Vol. 2: More Sing-Along Symphonies

Manufacturer: Rounder / Umgd
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Beethoven's Wig: Sing Along Symphonies
Beethoven's Wig 3: Many More Sing-Along Symphonies
Mozart's Magnificent Voyage
Mr. Bach Comes To Call
World's Very Best Opera for Kids... in English!

ASIN: B0001I2C8O
Release Date: 2004-03-16

Tracks:

Stuck In The Saddle Again (Light Cavalry March, Suppe)
Sing Verdi Very Loud (La donna e mobile, from Rigoletto, Verdi)
Its The Same Every Verse (In The Hall of The Mountain King, from Peer Gynt Suite, Grieg)
Musical Bs (Hungarian Dance #5, Brahms)
Dont Play That Violin (Violin Concerto #2, Paganini)
Schuberts Trout (Trout Quintet, Schubert)
Dvorak The Czechoslovak (Humoresque #7, Dvorak)
A Fan of Chopin (Prelude 7, Op. 28, Chopin)
Please Do Not Tease The Viennese (Blue Danube Waltz, Strauss)
Its Spring! (Spring, from The Four Seasons, Vivaldi)
Wow What a Wedding Cake (Wedding March, from A Midsummer Nights Dream,. Mendelssohn)
Instrumental Performances:
Light Cavalry March, Suppe
La donna e mobile, from Rigoletto, Verdi (with vocals)
In The Hall of The Mountain King, from Peer Gynt Suite, Grieg
Hungarian Dance #5, Brahms
Violin Concerto #2, Paganini
Trout Quintet, Schubert
Humoresque #7, Dvorak
Prelude 7, Op. 28, Chopin
Blue Danube Waltz, Strauss
Spring, from The Four Seasons, Vivaldi

Amazon.com

From a pure-pleasure standpoint, the first Beethoven's Wig was nothing to flip over, and the second disc in the series follows suit. However, that is not to say that this is not a valuable and possibly ingenious record. Those unfamiliar with the premise will quickly get the picture: Producer/writer/lead singer/chief clever guy Richard Perlmutter gathers a bundle of important classical works (Paganini's "Violin Concerto #2," Strauss' "Blue Danube Waltz") and makes up silly, catchy lyrics to lay over them, informing the listener about the piece or its composer. Standing out for their offbeat brilliance this time are "Dvorak the Czechoslovak" ("Humoresque #7," Dvorak) and "Wow What a Wedding Cake" (Wedding March from A Midsummer Night's Dream, Mendelssohn). Few stabs at mixing education with entertainment succeed so well. As a bonus, the second half of the CD repeats the symphonies straight up, presenting a neat opportunity to quiz kids 5-12 on what and who they've just heard. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

Almost as wonderful as the first.......2007-08-02

We bought Beethoven's Wig 1 and loved it. My kids (ages 5 and 9) really enjoy listening over and over. Number 2 is almost as good. All of the songs are amusing and a couple are very funny. The lyrics are clever and do help you become familiar with composers and their music. I like that the pieces are played again in the second half without the lyrics. I highly recommend it for kids who enjoy music.

Greatest baby gift ever.......2007-03-15

Both of my grandchildren (and their parents and grandparents) are hooked on this CD and all of the silliness and beauty it brings into our lives. We sing to it, dance to it, and find ourselves thinking about it at odd times. Who can't love singing Verdi VERY LOUD? I've now started giving this as a simple baby gift, especially to those with older siblings. They are already equipped with clothing and nursery gear, and Beethoven's Wig invites the whole family to gather round...even if it is just on short car rides.

Great for the whole family.......2007-01-04

My husband, 18 month old daughter and I all love this CD. It's a staple in the car. One caveat- these lyrics will get stuck in your head and I now find myself singing the "words" to these songs when I hear them in a store or commercial! I'm hoping this means my daughter will recognize these songs as she gets older.

More Great Fun.......2006-03-13

Like the first volume, this CD encourages young children to enjoy classical music. The silly lyrics sometimes impart factual information on the composer or the piece. There are 11 sing-along symphonies and then the 11 symphonies are replayed without the lyrics--total of 22 tracks. Booklet with lyrics and trivia is included. All our children (aged 2-12) enjoy this CD, as do we.

One is better but this is still awesome!! Gotta have it!.......2006-01-10

My children loved Beethovens Wig 1. I checked this one out at the library. Then, we decided we had to have this one too.
Yes, one is the best but 2 is still wonderful.
Save yourself the shipping and order both at the same time.
We all thoroughly enjoy it. My 4 yr old can name these classicals when he hears them elsewhere and he can hum these beautiful songs. Much better than kiddie rhymes and Disney jingles. Culture your children the funniest way!!

Average customer rating:

wonderful
Repackaged New Year's Concert 1984 with VPO, etc.
I am glad I bought this one
Great Music as usual
A gem!

Strauss: The Best of Vienna

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

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General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Strauss Waltzes
Favorite Waltzes
Johann Strauss: Waltzes
Chopin: Favorite Piano Works
Essential Mozart: 32 Of His Greatest Masterpieces

ASIN: B00000HY9K
Release Date: 1999-01-12

Tracks:

The Blue Danube - (Waltz) - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.
Anna Polka - (French Polka) - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.
Morning Papers - (Waltz) - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.
At The Hunt - (Polka) - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.
Light of Heart - (Fast Polka) - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.
Wine, Women And Song - (Waltz) - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.
Pleasure - Train - (Fast Polka) - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.
Vienna Bonbons - (Waltz) - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.
Perpetual Motion - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.
Accelarations - (Waltz) - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.
Pizzicato - Polka - (Johann And Josef Strauss) - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.
Tales From The Vienna Woods - (Waltz) - J. STRAUS SR./STRAUSS*J. JR.

Tracks:

The Emperor Waltz - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Thunder and Lightning - (Fast Polka) - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Die Fledermaus: Overture - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Voices of Spring - (Waltz) - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Prince Methusalem: Bandit Gallop - (From 'Prince Methusalem') - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Artist's Life - (Waltz) - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Persian March - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Roses from the South - (Waltz) - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Eljen a Magyar! - (Fast Hungarian Polka) - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Chit-Chat Polka - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Vienna Blood - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Radetzky-March - (Johann Strauss, Father) - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra

Customer Reviews:

wonderful.......2007-07-22

These CD's were wonderful. When I drive in the Sierra Nevada mountians I want something peaceful but not boring. I love, love, love it.

Repackaged New Year's Concert 1984 with VPO, etc........2005-02-23

If I'm not mistaken, most of the pieces were recorded originally live during a 1984 New Year's Concert conducted by Lorin Maazel with the Vienna Philharmonic playing in its grand concert hall, the Musikverein. Maazel and the Vienna Philharmonic have had a longstanding relationship dating from the 1960's, and without question, this CD does rank among my favorite New Year's Concert performances (However, the most mesmerizing ones I've heard have been those with the late Carlos Kleiber and Nikolaus Harnoncourt conducting.) for the superb quality of the Vienna Philharmonic's playing. Maazel leads the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra in some of the most popular works composed by the Strauss family, most notably Johann II Strauss' Tales from the Vienna Woods Waltz, Emperor Waltz, Pizzicato Polka, Blue Danube Waltz and his father's Radetzky March, which traditionally closes out the annual New Year's Concert. Fans of the Strauss family, Vienna Philharmonic and Lorin Maazel, will not be disappointed with this excellent two CD compilation.

I am glad I bought this one.......2003-04-25

I listen to this cd to relax and it is so soothing. It starts with The blue Danube, which is my favorite. But the rest of the songs do not disapoint.

Great Music as usual.......2002-10-08

This is great recording,
I enjoy listening to it
veru much. This is a
compilation of all the
favorite waltzes by
the Strauss family, that
one might hear at a
New Year's eve concert
of the Vienna Philharmonic...
All waltzes and Polkas are
favorites of audiences everywhere
in the world...

A gem!.......2001-10-29

Who else knows Strauss better than Viennese? I attest that no other orchestra in the world plays Strauss better than the Vienna Philharmonic. Their light sound is exactly what the composer wanted, and it really makes other clumsy, heavy attempts by some other orchestras like Berlin and Chicago seem pathetic.

Tracks:

Turn To Stone
It's Over
Sweet Talkin' Woman
Across The Border
Night In The City
Starlight
Jungle
Believe Me Now
Steppin' Out
Standin' In The Rain
Big Wheels
Summer And Lightning
Mr. Blue Sky
Sweet Is The Night
The Whale
Birmingham Blues
Wild West Hero
Wild West Hero
The Quick And The Daft
Latitude 88 North

Customer Reviews:

ELO's biggest-selling album turns 30!.......2007-08-01

OUT OF THE BLUE turned out to be the Electric Light Orchestra's biggest-selling album of their legacy. This 30-year-old album spawned two Top 20 hits,TURN TO STONE and SWEET TALKIN' WOMAN,also fan favorites like IT'S OVER,MR. BLUE SKY and WILD WEST HERO. All tracks contained herein were written by frontman Jeff Lynne. I love the sound of the drums,although it was not Jim Keltner playing. Lynne and Keltner would later collaborate together for recordings by Lynne's close friends the late George Harrison and Tom Petty(Lynne,Harrison,Petty,Bob Dylan and the late Roy Orbison later founded the all-star Traveling Wilburys). Keltner would also drum on Lynne's solo recordings as well,particularly Lynne's 1990 album ARMCHAIR THEATRE.

pop perfection.......2007-07-30

I disagree with those who happen to think ELO's Out of the Blue contains too much filler, or too many songs to put up with. I love every song on the album for THAT thought to ever cross my mind.

"Turn to Stone" is the best way to start a pop album. It's an upbeat, energetic, and LOUD track. "It's Over" comes next, and it's actually a bit too mellow compared to the songs it's crammed between. "Sweet Talkin' Woman" rules so much. Flawless vocal melody. The high point of the bands wonderfully, unique career.

"Night in the City" is getting dangerously close to disco, but it works really well. "Jungle" is my personal favorite song. About as catchy as pop music gets. By the time we reach track 10, I can't believe how much I love this album!

Yup, "Mr. Blue Sky" is a superb song with a perfect vocal melody. It's so bouncy and in your face. "The Whale" is a dreamy instrumental. I like how it sounds, and I love the intentional picture it puts in my head of stargazing all night long. Or stargazing from a whales point of view. Something like that.

"Birmingham Blues" is about as close as the band ever got to blues, and "Wild West Hero" is well, a western-sounding cowboy ghost town track. A great way to close out a REALLY great double album (now available on one disc!)

Great reissue, it's now better than ever.......2007-07-18

ELO are amazing when you listen to them on a stellar sound system. They really do sound like an orchestra, but they don't resemble classical music. They are more of a rock/pop band, with some touches of funk and R&B (at least to me). But what makes them stand out is that they use orhcestral instruments, and they sound just _______ majestic, yet to the point. You simply have to listen to believe it.

Out OF The Blue is my only ELO album, so I have nothign to compare against others. Out of the blue is really cool to hear, it's not something I would listen to everyday, but still, the songs are excellent. Mr. Blue Sky, Night In The City, and Jungle are amazing songs, they represent ELO at their best.

Okay, I am having trouble naming some of the highlights, everything on this record is spacey and futuristic, it's pretty involving and immersive. Just remember to wear headphones whne going Out Of The Blue.

8.0/10

Out of the Blue - Captures Memories.......2007-05-18

This double album came out when I was preparing to start spring semester at a new college. The memories come surging back and the quality enhances this great sounding music. Jeff Lynne was a tune-smith supreme!! The musical peaks, crisp surges and those perfect hooks stirred memories with each song. Back in the day, these songs were played everywhere I went. ELO was the main sound of my world!! ELO was a major musical force in the 70's. Their sound is unmatched and timeless.

ELO at their most ambituious.......2007-05-04

Jeff Lynne was always a master tunesmith, but even at his best (Eldorado and Face the Music), he often tripped over his classical predelictions. "Out Of The Blue" was the climactic moment where Lynne's determination that pop music pinnacled at "I Am The Walrus" matched his classic experiments perfectly, and he was just beginning to let go of his rock and roll visions. (Even if the next tour was the infamous Spaceship Stage extravaganza.)

This is the album that yielded two flawless pop singles, "Turn To Stone" and "Mr. Blue Sky," inescapable some 30 years later. But Lynne also wanted to try out his inner "Abby Road" with the side long "Concerto For A Rainy Day." It flows like a good song suite should, more so than "Eldorado" did, and climaxed with "Mr. Blue Sky."

"Out Of The Blue" is loaded with moments of pop perfection. You can hear Lynne's evolution into Travelling Wilburys territory on "Across The Border" and "Birmingham Blues." His fascination with the American west (think "Poker" and "Down Home Town") on "Wild West Hero." His melancholy also comes to the fore on "hero" and "It's Over."

I will be one of those who is actually pleased with the remastering. The highs are a lot crisper and the soundstage seems to be broader. The annoying dropouts that plagued the previous CD are all but gone. This is the best version of "Out Of The Blue" yet. Don't be scared off by the audio-snobs - this is a brillant pop album and deserves a space in your CD collection if you're an ELO fan.

Average customer rating:

What a BAND!
Probably his finest work overall
Can never be replicated
My favorite
The BEST of the Best

Blue Light, Red Light
Harry Connick Jr.
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Swing General | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

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4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

We Are in Love
Come by Me
Only You
25
20

ASIN: B00000284F
Release Date: 1991-09-24

Tracks:

Blue Light, Red Light (Someone's There)
A Blessing & A Curse
You Didn't Know Me When
Jill
He Is They Are
With Imagination (I'll Get There)
If I Could Give You More
The Last Payday
It's Time
She Belongs To Me
Sonny Cried
Just Kiss Me

Customer Reviews:

What a BAND!.......2006-10-14

Got this one just for Roger Ingram on "Just Kiss Me". Folks, this is how lead trumpet is done!

Probably his finest work overall.......2005-11-12

Other releases of Harry's better demonstrate his jazz chops (some of the cuts on WHEN HARRY MET SALLY [ASIN B0000026V6] and 19[ASIN B0000026LW]) and others are more experimental (the Nawlins' funk expressed on SHE [ASIN B000002A64]) but as a reflection of Connick's usual big band style, this is probably his most realized attempt at offering his affection for the style by trying to add to the "Great American Songbook".

HIGHLIGHTS:
"Red Light, Blue Light" starts the disc in fine fashion with a tune that slinks along like a long lost film noir tune. (Listen to the contrast between the quiet clarinet and sections and the brassy bombast and see if you don't think "detective theme".) Connick knows that life can still be good if the bank account's not. ("Who cares if the floor ain't level/Or if the ceiling falls in....I can't be concerned/Why should I care?/No place I'd go alone would ever compare/Cuz I know/You're there") "You Didn't Know Me When" casts Connick as a rascal full of tall tales. ("If you want a resume, I'll put it in writing/It's only good for a day and the contents are frightening..") He shrugs aside suggestions of his truth-stretching by simply noting "Baby, you didn't know me when..." "He Is, They Are" follows a father through his children's eyes from days as breadwinner ("He is strong/They are secure") through a divorce ("She was gone/They were confused/He was forgetful/They were supportive") and finally as an aged man needing their help ("He is needing/they are giving/He is glad they are his own".) "With Imagination (I'll Get There)" is the most influenced by Connick's hometown, imbued with a heavy Dixieland flavour. "The Last Payday" is a cautionary tale to n'er-do-wells that reminds you that "You're always lucky/'til you get caught". It also makes nifty use of a billiard sample.

LOWS:
"Jill" is a bland sop to Connick's paramour at the time (wife now I believe). It features half-baked sentiments like "Look, my darling/And you'll hear me sing 'I love you' with my eyes". "It's Time" has way too much music and too little lyric. What could have been a decent tune if kept succinct drones on past the point of my interest. "Sonny Cried" is a sleepy affair based entirely around Connick's croon and Russell Malone's acoustic guitar. That in and of itself isn't the kiss of death but the lyric just doesn't have any real heft.

BOTTOM LINE:
Comes as close as I've heard to standing alongside Porter, Gershwin, etc. It's still the Connick CD I pull out most often. Recommended.

Can never be replicated.......2004-05-26

This is by far Harry's most complete album. I got this CD in 1991 when I was twelve and just getting into music and fell in love with it. Thirteen years later I am still listening to the CD. It starts out with a powerful ballad in Blue Light, Red Light, comes to the halfway point with a great dixie land swing mix in With Imagination (great solos) and ends with a high energy big band piece, Kiss Me. People who appreciate jazz and music alike will be assured to enjoys hours of listening. P.S. Go see Harry live, the man puts on a great show and is an audience pleaser.

My favorite.......2004-02-20

This album is by far my favorite of all Harry's offerings. I first saw him on Donahue ages ago and ended up getting this CD. Harry since put out several other albums trying to re-invent himeself along the way with a little funk but the songs from Red Light Blue Light are what I measure all his other albums up against.

Harry on Red Light Blue Light is backed up by an extremely talented big band whom much of which are also featured on a Harry Connick Jr. DVD I highly recommend called The New York Big Band Concert.

The BEST of the Best.......2002-11-05

My mother, guided by a recommendation from a store clerk, bought the cassette of this album for my father on their wedding anniversary. So my very first exposure to Harry Connick Jr. was by chance. Or rather, by destiny: as this album has inspired me in more ways than I can describe.

Six years later, after having worn out two tapes, i bought the album on CD. Now, five years after buying the CD, I plan on buying another - as it's been played over and over and over, causing much abuse.

A romantic effort with emotion so deep it is best measured in leagues, every song on the album is an amazing listen. From the beautiful title track that tells how all one needs for happiness is love to "He is, They Are" that tells of the care of a single father, Harry's voice takes you on a musical journey of which is likened to a quiet stroll in central park (or perhaps Berkley Square) on a warm August night.

His voice is often compared to Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby, yet he remains undoubtedly his own - with a swing that is straight from 1943. Sometimes sweet, sometimes hot - the jazz is always grooving, rich and enveloping with instrumentation that is nothing less than perfect - thanks in no small part to solos by Leroy Jones (trumpet), Jerry Weldon (tenor sax), Brad Leali (alto sax), Ned Goold (tenor sax), and Russell Malone (acoustic guitar).

Enjoy "A Blessing and a Curse" and "With Imagination (I'll Get There)." Delight in romance with the likes of "She Belongs to Me" and "If I Could Give You More." Have fun with "Just Kiss Me" and "You Didn't Know Me When." Shed a tear with "Sonny Cried" and "The Last Payday." Listen to "Jill" and consider if it isn't the best Love song you've ever heard.

"Blue Light, Red Light" is, without a doubt, Harry Connick Jr's best album. I can say this because I own all of his albums. Proudly.

Tracks:

You Don't Know What Love Is
Come On In My Kitchen
Tell Me You'll Wait For Me
Children Of The Night
Hellhound On My Trail
Black Crow
Sankofa
Estrellas
Redbone
Tupelo Honey
Blue Light 'Til Dawn
I Can't Stand The Rain

Amazon.com essential recording

Cassandra Wilson is a postmodern jazz singer, a conceptualist who sees no dividing lines between genres. If her career had commenced in the 1970s rather than the label-conscious 1990s she would have been marketed as a mainstream pop diva. Her magnificent voice and interpretive genius mark her as a jazz singer for the ages, however. She finds her material wherever her fancy takes her and remakes it in her own image, whether it be the country blues of Robert Johnson's "Come On in My Kitchen" and "Hellhound On My Trail," the soul of Ann Peebles's "I Can't Stand the Rain," the elegant R&B of Charles Brown's "Tell Me You'll Wait for Me," the melodic pop of Joni Mitchell's "Black Crow," and Van Morrison's "Tupelo Honey," or her own "Redbone"--and the title track, accompanied by steel guitarist Gib Wharton. --John Swenson

Customer Reviews:

Repeatedly unexpected. Serious jazz remakes old favorites........2006-03-23

Repeatedly unexpected. Spare, care-ful arrangements, each specifically formulated for each song, each matching her rich, dark alto. First and foremost, serious jazz, but also something entirely different, reflecting an eclectic song choice (e.g., Robert Johnson, Joni Mitchell, Van Morrison, Jimi Hendrix, Ann Peebles, herself). Sometimes a primal awareness, but mainly a remarkable artistic sensibility. She DEMANDS attention, completely remaking even old favorites into something totally new. S: tr 2-Come on in my kitchen; tr 4-Children of the night, tr 5-Hellhound on my trail; tr 7-Sankofa; tr 10-Tupelo honey.

Sweet as Tupelo honey.......2004-11-23

Hands down one of the best covers of Tupelo Honey I've heard. For some reason this stands out as one Cassandra's best recordings to me. Great range of voice and songs in this outing.

One of the Best of the '90's.......2004-01-25

Of all of the vocal jazz albums released in the 1990's, this remains one of the best. Ms. Wilson shows tremendous range and diversity here: from a cover of "Tupelo Honey" that outdoes Van Morrison (if that's even possible), to a wonderfully evocative "Hellhound on My Trail", to "You Don't Know What Love Is". to the African-based trio in the middle of the set, it doesn't get much more eclectic than this. Yet, it's all interesting, with always interesting instrumentation. I think Cassandra Wilson falls in the mold of Billie Holiday--one with a relatively limited voice who just brings it all to the table--but with wider diversity. Very highly recommended.

A fine song stylist.......2003-10-25

Ms. Wilson has a wonderful voice that reminds me somewhat of that of Cleo Laine. The problem for great voices--now I'm also thinking of Whitney Houston--is that they don't always make great albums.

This one is what I would describe as late night music, the kind of thing that you put on when you have arrived home having drunk rather too much, and want to hear something clear and pure to clear your head.

My favorite track on this is the Robert Johnson number Hellhound On My Trail, which is beautifully done with solo guitar accompaniment. I would like to have heard more of Ms. Wilson in this mode, but this album is a bit of a sampler--eclectic if you like--mixing blues, jazz and country, with violins creeping in every now and again.

Not a bad album at all, but I suspect that Ms. Wilson is capable of an even better one, so I reserve judgement a bit. I also have a feeling, and this is just a hunch, that this album may appeal more to female listeners than to the guys.

My star rating system goes like this:

5 stars--an absolute classic
4 stars--the artist is on top form here, a good buy
3 stars--fans of this artist should enjoy this album
2 stars--some good stuff, but inconsistent
1 star--just not good enough

learn to love it.......2003-03-28

So Cassandra's "New Moon Daughter" is a gem too, but this album is less known and, while it didn't make an immediate impression on me, I now listen to it a lot more. There's basically more variety in song style and arrangement and, if you like Cassandra, then just the sound of her voice is heaven. (If you haven't heard her, her voice is about as distinct as Nina Simone's.) The key point with Cassandra is: nobody sounds like her so if she isn't in your collection then nothing like her is in your collection. Her voice is deep and sultry, her music spacious, unrushed -- there's something distinctly southern about it. She is one of Nora Jones' inspirations, but where Nora's voice is a gentle breeze, Cassandra's is a gathering cloud, and there is no lounge sound to Cassandra's music -- the instruments bleed raw notes.

Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury

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The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan
Pure delight
Delicious G&S samplings abound here.
Fine Intro to G&S

Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury
Nicholas Folwell , Arthur Sullivan , Marie McLaughlin , Rebecca Evans , Anthony Rolfe Johnson , John Mark Ainsley , Alwyn Mellor , Anne Howells , Barry Banks , Eric Garrett , Felicity Palmer , Gareth Rhys Davies , Janice Watson , Julie Gossage , Neill Archer , Pamela Helen Stephen , Peter Savidge , Richard Stuart , Richard Suart , Richard Van Allan , Sir Thomas Allen [baritone] , Sir Charles Mackerras , and Welsh National Opera
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection
Topsy-Turvy - The Music of Gilbert & Sullivan: From the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan
The Complete Annotated Gilbert & Sullivan
The Gilbert and Sullivan Overtures

ASIN: B000003D1Y
Release Date: 1996-01-23

Tracks:

A Wandering Minstrel I
Behold The Lord High Executioner!
Three Little Maids From School Are We
Braid The Raven Hair
The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring
On A Tree By A River, A Little Tom-tit Sang, 'Willow, Tit-willow'
For He's Gone And Married Yum-Yum
We Sail The Ocean Blue
I'm Called Little Buttercup
My Gallant Crew
When I Was A Lad
Things Are Seldom What They Seem
Never Mind The Why And Wherefore
Climbing Over Rocky Mountain
Poor Wand'ring One
How Beautifully Blue The Sky
I Am The Very Model Of A Modern Major-General
When The Foeman Bares His Steel
Ah, Leave Me Not To Pine
With Cat-Like Tread
Is Life A Boon?
I Have A Song To Sing, O!
Were I Thy Bride
Oh, A Private Buffoon Is A Light-Hearted Loon
When A Wooer Goes A-Wooing
When I, Good Friends, Was Called To The Bar
A Nice Dilemma We Have Here
Oh, Joy Unbounded

Customer Reviews:

The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan.......2004-03-15

At the end of the 19th century (1870's, 80's and 90's) the compatible duo of librettist and composer Gilbert and Sullivan popularized the pre-Broadway entertainment of Savoy opera. These were light operas or operettas whose content was satire and comedy, full of bouncy melodies and beautiful singing, highly entertaining theatrical works staged at London's Savoy theatre. Gilbert and Sullivan did not always get along and in fact there was a time when they ended their professional relationship because personal conflicts surfaced. But they managed to create the world's most beloved light operas, over 40 of them. Their most famous are what I call the Big Three- The H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates Of Penzance and The Mikado. Other works include their first hit Trial By Jury, The Yeomen Of The Guard, Princess Ida, The Gondoliers, Patience and several others. A standard signature of Gilbert and Sullivan was in the colorful cast- a comic actor with a special kind of baritone voice, a canary-like and sweet-voiced coloratura or lyric diva, a mezzo soprano with strong chest register and a lyric tenor as the romantic hero. On this album, English conductor Sir Charles Mackerras, a popular figure in the classical music scene and opera, guides the Chorus and Orchestra Of the Welsh National Opera in generally well-delivered performances of excerpts from the operas The Mikado, The H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates Of Penzance, Yeomen Of The Guard and Trial By Jury. Although I feel that the recordings made by the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company, with Isodore Godfrey conducting and starring the best cast of the Gilbert and Sullivan repertoire- the singers of the 60's and 70's- tenor Phillip Potter, soprano Valerie Masterson, baritone John Reed, Donald Adams and mezzo soprano Christine Palmer. Their version of the Pirates Of Penzance and the Mikado far outshine the Welsh National Opera in technical mastery and vibrant tone color.

But these are fine excerpts. Especially appealing is the famous and cheerful "Three Little Maids From School Are We", a trio that imitates Japanese style melody. Most of the Mikado does this, for it was inspired by Japanisme or the new fashion in Victorian England- everything Japanese, from prints to paintings to poetry. Gilbert and Sullivan simply "Japanized" their English operettas. The Finale "For He's Gone To Marry Yum Yum" is an ebullient and pleasant finale. Not featured here is the domineering and powerful Katisha, a figure who stands out in the Mikado.

The H.M.S. Pinafore is Gilbert and Sullivan's most popular work. The sea chanty "We Sail The Ocean Blue" opens the opera with appropriate atmosphere and it seems to fit perfectly with the other scene in which the Captain greets his crew and they sing his praises "My Gallant Crew..I am the Captain Of The Pinafore". A beautiful melody that seems to come out of a romantic Offenbach tune is "I"m Called Little Buttercup". The finale, not featured here, is also very engaging "For He Is An Englishman" which can almost resemble a British national anthem. The Yeomen Of The Guard was Gilbert and Sullivan's "serious opera" eventhough it remains very Savoyard. The plot deals with Tudor England and takes place at the London Tower. "I have a song to sing" makes use of what can be taken for an English ballad of the Renaissance. Trial By Jury, about the eccentric and hilarious activity of a court trial, has a sextet that although different in composition, has the sextet "Che Mi Frena" from Donizetti's Lucia Di Lammermoor in mind. All in all, an excellent recording sure to delight young and old.

Pure delight.......2003-08-02

--Gilbert & Sullivan--
William Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan were a match made in heaven, yet on earth their pairing seems even with hindsight a most unlikely coupling. Both were destined for other things, Gilbert in fact for decidedly non-musical careers. Introduced by a mutual friend, Fred Clay, the fledgling lyricist Gilbert met the military-band-leader's son Sullivan and together continued to conspire to inspire the delights of audiences from high Victorian times down to the present, as their work in musical theatre comedy continues to provide merriment throughout the English-speaking world and beyond.

--The Music--
This collection includes highlights from five of the most popular Gilbert & Sullivan operettas: The Mikado, HMS Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance, The Yeoman of the Guard, and Trial by Jury. The arrangements and orchestrations are delightfully energetic and clear; the characterisation and vocal qualities of the leads are perfect for their roles. The haughty if misplaced Lord of the Admiralty has the perfect combination of insecurity and pompous officiousness. The Plaintiff and the Defendant in the Trial are perfectly cast. This is a collection of highlights - at least three but no more than seven songs each, but this gives a good flavour of the music. The recordings on this collection come from complete performances by Mackerras and the WNO.

--Sir Charles Mackerras--
Mackerras is one of the geniuses of the twentieth century musical scene. Having a conducting career that includes the Hamburg Opera, the English National Opera (formerly Sadlers Wells Opera), and the Welsh National Opera (the performers for this piece), he has also conducted major orchestras on the continent of Europe and in the United States. The holder of many major awards and honourary doctorates, he has devoted much time and energy to the preservation and performance of eighteenth and nineteenth century music, as well the restoration of historical musical venues, such as the Estates Theatre in Prague, scene of the original production of Don Giovanni (Mackerras conducted the opera there to commemorate the bicentenary of the death of Mozart).

--Welsh National Opera Orchestra and Chorus--
The seeds of the WNO were planted in Cardiff during World War II by music lovers; the first performances occurred a year after the war's end, with Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci on the bill, with Faust the next night. Popular appeal was so great that the WNO was established, later adding choruses in both Cardiff and Swansea. The professional chorus was established in 1973, with a strength that matches the orchestra. They continue an ambitious performance schedule for recording and live events; Mackerras remains the Conductor Emeritus, as the WNO continues under the direction of Carlo Rizzi. The list of awards the WNO has won over the years is staggering - they are a world class institution by any measure.

--Other performers--
Notable singers such as Richard Stuart, Rebecca Evans, Felicity Palmer, John Mark Ainsley and Anne Howells lead the chorus with stunning vocals and clever characterisations of the parts they play. Many (such as Stuart and Evans) play the leading roles across several of the pieces of the disc.

--Liner Notes--
The liner notes give a good introduction and biographical information about Gilbert and Sullivan, as well as synopses of the five pieces presented here. It does not, unfortunately, include any information about Mackerras, the WNO Orchestra and Chorus, or the other special performers. It also does not include the lyrics to the songs. Were the quality of the CD not so great, this might cost it a star in rating.

--Overall Impressions--
I play this CD in my car, in my home and in my office frequently. It is a great sing-along work and a great comedic relief from the stresses of the day. The music is bubbly and clear; the recording quality is excellent and crisp. I recommend this to any Gilbert & Sullivan lover, any fan of musical comedy, opera and operettas, and anyone who delights in good music.

Delicious G&S samplings abound here........2003-05-06

The first thing I should be saying is "What an infectuous G&S CD." Indeed this is, with this fine sampling of the peppy and bright Mackerras series. I know I have praised its "Mercedes-Benz quality" elsewhere on these pages, but that doesn't stop me from saying that everyone is in fine voice. This generously filled CD may only focus on five operas, but at least you can savour a reasonable choice sampling of delights from each one. Of particular interest is Richard Suart's patter-baritone parts and the soaring lyric soprano of Rebecca Evans. The selection on this disc is filled with a mixture of familiar favourites and lesser-known gems such as the female choruses in Mikado and Pirates. Mackerras is a true G&S conductor, but one who always springs rhythms crisply, and adopts peppy tempo for the fast bits. The one drawback is that this selection is far too infectuous that you'll want to shell out money to buy the full 5-CD Mackerras cycle - an incredible bargain with most of the operas fitted onto one disc each. But still, this is at least a decent G&S sampling for beginners, capped with Steven Ledbetter's copious liner notes. It will leave you wanting to say "dammit I'm going to play it again."

Fine Intro to G&S.......2000-12-30

This is the perfect CD for those who may not be familiar with G&S, or for the initiated who want a smattering but don't have the mother of all CD changers. The difficulty with any G&S Greatest Hits CD is determining which pieces to leave off; while one could easily point to any number equally good bits, it would be difficult to argue about the quality of the choices included. The only problem, such as it is, is that after listening to it I am usually induced to go back and listen to the whole opera anyway. The Mackerras recordings are uniformly excellent. I have read elsewhere the criticism that they are too 'operatic' for light opera. If by this it is meant that the singers are too good, then I leave it to the discretion of the listener when the singing becomes too good to be enjoyable.

Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music

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CD set is misnamed
Do not Buy
Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music
Seek better versions
It Is What It Is

Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music

Manufacturer: Compendia
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits
25 Classical Favorites
25 Romantic Classics
The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World...Ever!
The Most Relaxing Classical Music in the Universe

ASIN: B000003QWH
Release Date: 1994-06-09

Tracks:

Canon In D
'Brandenburg' Concerto No. 3: Allegro
The Four Seasons - The Winter: Largo And Allegro
Fanfare ('Masterpiece Theatre' Theme)
Camerata Romana: Air For The 'G' String
'Eine kleine Nachtmusik': Allegro
Piano Concerto No. 21 ('Elvira Madigan' Theme): Andante
Introduction To Symphony No. 5
'William Tell' Overture: Finale
'Aida': Triumphal March
On The Beautiful, Blue Danube Waltz
'The Nutcracker': Waltz Of The Flowers
'1812' Overture: Finale

Tracks:

Sabre Dance
'Light Cavalry' Overture: Finale
Carmen: The Toreadors
' Midsummer Night's Dream': Wedding March
Radetzky March
Symphony No. 9, 'Choral': Finale
'Prince Igor': Polovstian Dance No. 17
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
Peer Gynt: Solveig's Song
Sleepers, Wake
Water Music: Hornpipe
Symphony No. 9, 'From The New World': Largo
Emperor Waltz
'Emperor' Quartet: St. Anthony's Chorale
'The Tales Of Hoffman': Barcarolle
L'Arlesienne: Farandole
'The Nutcracker': Dance Of The Mirlitons
'The Nutcracker': Dance Of The Sugar-Plum Fairy
'Rhapsody In Blue': Highlight
'Orpheus In The Underworld': Can-Can

Tracks:

Introduction To 'Also sprach Zarathustra'
Symphony No. 4, 'Italian': Saltarello: Presto
Piano Concerto No. 20: Romance
'The Valkyrie': Ride Of The Valkyries
'The Four Seasons' - The Spring: Allegro
Toccata and Fugue
Trumpet Voluntary
'Royal Fireworks Music': la rejouissance: Allegro
'Moonlight' Sonata: Adagio Sostenuto
London Festival Orchestra: Overture To 'The Barber Of Seville'
Piano Concerto No. 2: Adagio Sostenuto

Tracks:

Carmina Burana: Introduction To 'Carmina Burana'
Peer Gynt: Dawn From 'Peer Gynt'
Lohengrin: Prelude To 'Lohengrin'
'Lieutenant Kije': Troika From 'Lieutenant Kije'
Adiago For Strings
'Carmen': Habanera From 'Carmen'
'Double' Concerto: Allegro From 'Double' Concerto
The Marriage Of Figaro: Overture To 'The Marriage Of Figaro'
(Rondo) Alla Turca
Xerxes: Largo From 'Xerxes'
Symphony No. 5: Allegro vivace From Symphony No. 5
'Swan Lake': Scene: Enchanted Lake From 'Swan Lake'
Clair De Lune
Bolero

Customer Reviews:

CD set is misnamed.......2007-06-08

They should have titled this "classical music for people who love classical music" because most of the selections are typical classical music. The title suggests it would be lively selections of "light classical" music that is more upbeat, i.e. Sabre Dance, etc. I really don't hate classical music at all and have many classical CDs in my collection but I really wanted to hear more exciting selections. I won't be purchasing any more of this set but if you like traditional classical music these are good one.

Do not Buy.......2007-02-21

I do know it says classical music for people who hate it, but serioulsly you would have better luck never listening to classical music again. The recordings are awfull and do not do justice to any of the composers. Buy something else.

Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music.......2007-01-30

We love this set of CD's. I just got a new copy because my kids keeping taking our first copy with them so that they can listen at work or in their bedrooms but then I can never find them.

Seek better versions.......2006-12-09

If you are fairly new to classical purchases then compilation CD's can be useful for deciding what to buy next. Sometimes you only need a small taste of a piece to inspire you to buy a release with the whole performance on. The problem with this compilation however is that most of the versions are poor in performance or recording quality (or both) when compared to the best versions and the fact that the conductors aren't even credited on the track listing made me suspect that this would be the case. One of my favorite classical pieces is Tchaikovsky's 1812 festival overture but if the first CD version I had heard had been the finale excerpt that is on this compilation I may not have gone on to buy the whole thing. Luckily I heard Adrian Leaper's version first and Adrian's version is rather good.
My classical CD buying experience is limited to only a couple of dozen discs but I have found that the Naxos and Deutshe Grammophon releases are fairly safe. Avoid any release which does not name the conductors on the track listing or sleeve notes.

It Is What It Is.......2006-10-27

It's fitting that this page is fraught with the same kind of silly snobbery that turns people off from classical music (and necessitates collections like this) in the first place.

Any criticism of this compilation, which focuses on the quality of the performances or the fact that many tracks are excerpts, misses the point. This is not a collection for people who consider such things, nor does it purport to be. The idea is to package as many ultra-famous classical melodies as possible in one affordable collection and market it to people who have never purchased a classical recording. As such, top-tier performances are likely too expensive to be sold so cheaply and are unnecessary anyway. Those of us who already know and love a piece or two can forgive the compilers the inclusion of sub-par recordings, when we are exposed to so many other beautiful pieces for the first time.

It probably comes as a shock for some to hear that most people are not familiar with these classics. We may hear snippets on TV or movies, but are left with no idea as to the composer or historical context. With that in mind, it is extremely intimidating to begin buying classical. I suppose those among us, who so thoroughly dismissed the very notion of a boxed set like this, would have us begin by buying full albums by reputable interpreters. Surprisingly enough though, the majority of people would consider that a tad cost-prohibitive.

To conclude, this is a STARTER collection. It will either affirm a listener's feelings about classical music or lead to an interest in purchasing better recordings. Ideally, I suppose the interpretations would be better, but, for reasons mentioned above, that just isn't in the cards for a collection of this nature. If you're familiar with 50 different recordings of "The Ring" series, or have season tickets to the New York Philharmonic, then this probably isn't for you. For us cretins with limited foreknowledge of classical music though, it serves as a succinct introduction with little to complain about.

Average customer rating:

A follow up to a classic...not bad.
House with no blue
This isn't your father's Deep Purple
One and a half stars for Spanish Archer . . . .
My favorite Deep Purple album

The House of Blue Light
Deep Purple
Manufacturer: Umvd Special Markets
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Perfect Strangers
Purpendicular
Who Do We Think We Are
The Battle Rages On...
Stormbringer (UK)

ASIN: B00000JBFX
Release Date: 1999-06-22

Tracks:

Bad Attitude
The Unwritten Law
Call Of The Wild
Mad Dog
Black & White
Hard Lovin' Woman
The Spanish Archer
Strangeways
Mitzie Dupree
Dead Or Alive

Customer Reviews:

A follow up to a classic...not bad........2007-06-11

No question, "Perfect Strangers" is a Deep Purple classic. "The House of Blue Light" was the follow up. Not all the songs are classic Purple, or even in the vein of "Perfect Strangers," but as a whole the album is pretty solid. For me, Bad Attitude, Strangeways, Mitzie Dupree, and Dead or Alive are the highlights of this album. Gillan's vocal work is, for the most part, excellent, especially on Mitzie Dupree. The Unwritten Law could have been a good song if the vocals weren't incredibly...stupid, for lack of a better word. The tensions between Gillan and Blackmore resulted in some pretty darn good guitar playing from Ritchie (Dead or Alive) and vocals from Ian trying to bridge the gap ("...why don't we call it a day before we call it a nightmare, darlin'?") or lashing out ("...you think I'm chained up, but I'm just tied down"). Overall, "The House of Blue Light" is a consistent, if sometimes unspectacular, album.

House with no blue.......2007-05-12

Great title but where is the blues ??? no likee....

This isn't your father's Deep Purple.......2007-03-15

I my humble opinion this was the best of the reunited Deep Purple. Perfect Strangers was a great album but the music was cut from the same cloth that much of the early Deep Purple and Rainbow for that matter. The thing that was great about the original Mark II two lineup was that from "In Rock" to "Fireball" to "Machine Head" to "Who Do We Think We Are" the sound and music on each of the albums was very different. There was growth and adventure in the development of each album. The House of Blue Light returned to an attempt to be creative. Granted these won't be the songs that will talk about forever or hardly at all twenty years later but they are great in their own rights. Songs like "The Spanish Archer", "Hard Lovin' Woman", "Strangeways", "The Unwritten Law", and "Dead or Alive" show a real stepping outside of the box with the style of the band. It was unfortunate that this album and tour were marred by the fighting within the band however as has always been the case with the band, the music is seemingly at it's best when there is tension from within. I have heard the album termed as an "experimental" album and I would have to agree and say that this was a successful experiment.

One and a half stars for Spanish Archer . . . ........2006-12-29

I'm not sure what DP was trying to be on this effort, but it didn't work. Maybe they weren't trying too hard to be anything at all, which would explain the insipid songwriting and mostly forgettable performances.

The opening two tracks, "Bad Attitude" and "Unwritten Law", are decent -- no memorable riffs or great performances, but listenable. "The Spanish Archer," featuring some interesting guitar work by RB, is far better than that. The rest are hardly worth mentioning. Songs like "Dead or Alive" and "Mad Dog" have plenty of energy but no life. (The blue lights are on but nobody's home?) Overall, these songs sound almost like each musician was recorded separately and the tracks were later mixed.

"Perfect Strangers," which preceded this, is one of Deep Purple's best albums, and "The Battle Rages On" is very good. As far as "The House of Blue Light" goes, get "Spanish Archer" for your IPOD and then close the door.

My favorite Deep Purple album.......2006-10-30

Talk about an underrated album, from an underrated legendary band.

When most famous groups reunite (like Cream or Pink Floyd) they do it for a one-off show, or a small reunion tour and then it's goodbye! But NOT Deep Purple, once they reunited it was stated: We are in it for the long haul. Boy, they weren't kidding!

This was the follow up to their famous reunion album "Perfect Strangers." I always found this album, "The House of Blue Light" to be even better. Of all the rock music I bought back in the 80's only a handful are still played in my house. This being one of them.

Ian Gillan has to be one of the most underrated lyricists in all of rock music. Next to Ozzy and Robert Plant, Gillan's lyrics are like Bob Dylan, or Dylan back in the 60's. Anyway, the rest of the band are brilliant as ever. For being an 80's sounding rock album it has held up much better than all the other hard rock outfits of that era.

Highlights: The Unwritten Law, Dead Or Alive, The Spanish Archer and Strangeways

Top 100 Masterpieces of Classical Music (Collectors Edition) (Box Set)

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Top 100 Masterpieces of Classical Music (Collectors Edition) (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polonaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

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